Police ask for public's help in two shooting deaths

RENO, Nev. (MyNews4.com & KRNV) -- Two separate shootings in Reno over the weekend have ended in two deaths. Reno Police are asking for your help to solve these crimes.

The first shooting happened Friday evening in the 1800-block of Purdue Avenue just before 10 p.m. Investigators said they responded to a call of shots fired. When they arrived, they said bullet holes could be seen through several windows at the apartment complex. Shortly after, officers discovered 23-year-old Anthony Cueva, inside his apartment suffering from a gunshot wound.

"He was an unintentional victim," said Lieutenant William Rulla said. "It's a very sad case. He was babysitting his young child when shots came through his apartment and he ended up getting struck and unfortunately died at the scene." Rulla said Cueva's five-month-old son was not hurt.

Rulla said several young males, wearing hoodies, could be seen leaving the area shortly after the gunfire erupted. Officers are asking anyone who heard or saw anything to call Secret Witness at 322-4900.

The second shooting happened Sunday evening, just after 6:30 p.m. It happened in the 900-block of Nutmeg Place. When officers arrived, they said they found a young boy lying in the street.

"This one also resulted in a death," said Rulla. "A 16-year-old boy who was pronounced dead at the hospital."

The identity of the boy has not been released. The shooting happened near the Alder Creek Villa Apartment Complex. Police believe this shooting may be gang related.

"The Neil Road area has had gang issues in the past," said Rulla. "We do have current gang members who do live down there. We suspect that may be associated with this. That is why we have our Regional Gang Unit involved with this investigation."

A $2,500 reward is being offered for information that leads to an conviction and arrest. You may provide information and remain anonymous by calling Secret Witness at 322-4900.

Rulla said investigators do not believe the two shootings are related.

Lt. Rulla needs to put his big boy pants on. He and the whole Reno PD need to show outrage, along with the Mayor, at these incidents. It isn't just unfortunate that Anthony Cueva was killed, it is a complete outrage. Its a complete outrage that a 16 year old was killed. Maybe gang related? Come on. Say that it IS gang related and that all of our resources are going to bring those responsible for justice and that the gang thugs are going down. Thugs don't respect the language you use. Stop showing the thugs respect. Give them the respect that they deserve. NONE.